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In celebration of the democratic nature of sportswear, Adidas-addict Gary Aspden teamed up with other committed trainer collectors to create a pioneering fan-led exhibition featuring over 600 pairs of footwear, including vintage, deadstock, re-issues and rarities. A true celebration of the personal story behind each pair, 'Spezial' is on show at the Hoxton Gallery from 19 - 27 July 2013.

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A firm antidote to the reams of high fashion trainer fans, Gary Aspden has been collecting Adidas shoes and apparel since his childhood in Northern England in the seventies. After years of working for the brand - during which his collection swelled to over 800 pairs of trainers - Aspden decided to draw inspiration from the democratic nature of sportswear by sharing his collection with the public via an exhibition at the Hoxton Gallery from 19 - 27 July 2013.

Starting with his personal collection as a foundation for the exhibition, Aspden contacted influential trainer collectors from all walks of life to pull together a showcase of rare vintage and re-issue footwear products. With shoes on display that date back to the sixties, Spezial documents Adidas' transition from sportswear giant to lifestyle powerhouse, all while celebrating its roots in in youth culture.

Featuring rare collaborations, deadstock and one-off creations, as well as signed samples from the likes of Noel Gallagher, Run DMC, NERD, Ian Brown, Eminem, Public Enemy and more, the exhibition is truly a fan-led celebration of the Adidas brand.

Accompanying the exhibition is a limited edition 100-page book, featuring images of some of the footwear on show, as well as quotes from influential adidas aficionados. Proceeds from the sale of this will go to The Teenage Cancer Trust.